Handsacre

River level

The lowdown

• The BAA length runs 700 yards upstream from the new road bridge near Handsacre in Staffordshire.
• There are 25 pegs, giving this a tidy, manageable feel rather than a huge wandering riverbank.
• The river is generally shallow here, so expect a more delicate sort of game than a big, deep Trent chuck.
• Winter is the headline season. Roach are the main draw, and pleasure catches can push beyond 20 lb — proper good fishing.
• Chub and bream are also present, with the occasional barbel putting in an appearance. A cheeky bonus fish, basically.
• Summer can be a right faff. Heavy weed growth can make the shallow water difficult to fish and limit the swims you can work comfortably.
• The road entrance is at 52.747904, -1.865045. Coming from the B5014, use the gate just before the bridge.
• Cars can be parked along the track up to the double gates. Don’t drive through them, and leave those gates shut for pedestrians.
• Keep the access track and gates clear. It’s simple stuff, but important on a compact stretch with shared access.
• Night fishing is prohibited, so plan around daylight and make the most of the cooler months when the roach are on the munch.

Methods: Winter roach are the obvious target on this shallow water, with careful coarse-fishing approaches suited to the conditions. Chub, bream and the occasional barbel add a bit of variety.

Access & tickets

Get BAA membership online, by telephone or by post; the 2026 membership year runs from 1 January to 31 December. Under-13 membership is free, and night permits must be bought separately in advance from BAA headquarters.

Fish the club names

roach, chub, bream, barbel

Key rules

• A valid BAA permit is required.
• Legal methods and equipment must be used.
• All fish must be released.
• Comply with litter restrictions.
• Comply with vehicle restrictions.
• Leave the double gates closed for pedestrians.
• Night fishing is prohibited at Handsacre.
• An Environment Agency licence is required where applicable.

Where it is